The proposed rule for Inspection of Towing Vessels has (finally) been submitted to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for review. This rulemaking would implement a program of inspection for certification of US towing vessels, which were previously uninspected. It would prescribe standards for safety management systems and third-party auditors and surveyors, along with standards for construction, operation, vessel systems, safety equipment, and
recordkeeping. (4/1/11).
Note from Dennis Bryant: Once this rulemaking comes into effect, US
towing vessels that become subject to inspection would no longer fall under the joint jurisdiction of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This joint jurisdiction has been a rubbing point within the towing industry for years. OMB review generally takes 2-3 months.
(Source: Bryant’s Maritime News)